How many times have you blown into your hands to smell your breath? How many times have you known that your breath smelled bad because of the taste in your mouth? There are many causes of bad breath but there are also ways to prevent and brings your big smile back again.

It is common for you to have morning breath, but at least 50% of people have bad breath throughout the day. Do you know that there are some common things behind this problem? Food that is leftover and stored in your mouth causes bacteria to build up making this the most popular reason for bad breath.  If you have a deteriorating resin tooth filling or a composite white filling it could be storing food particles between the filling and the gum, causing the bad breath. If you have bleeding gums this may be the result of gum disease that is releasing the foul odor from your mouth. Common health problems such as bronchitis, a sinus infection or diabetes are just a few of the conditions that can result in your bad breath. Dry mouth causing odor may be a result of gum disease or an illnesses.

Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly helps to keep food from sticking around to cause the bacteria to grow. If you are not able to brush your teeth every time you eat, try rinsing your mouth with water. Rinsing will help to release the food particles while keeping your mouth moist at the same time. Rinse with mouthwash that is free of alcohol regularly.

It is obvious that some foods carry foul odors that stick around in your mouth long after the meal is finished. Things such as onions and garlics should be avoided before important meetings or dates. Sometimes these foods can linger throughout time even after brushing or rinsing your teeth. Avoid breath mints after meals because they only mask the smell, leaving your mouth dry causing more reason for bacteria to grow.

Avoid snacks with strong odors and eat fresh, raw vegetables instead. Snacking on things such as carrots and celery will not only be a healthier choice, but will also help to avoid plaque buildup which in turn will cause the bad smelling bacteria to develop.

Caffeine, alcohol and tobacco products should be eliminated. Caffeine and alcohol are known to cause dehydration which is a big cause of dry mouth. Tar, nicotine and caffeine can create an ugly plaque development on your teeth, tongue and your cheeks while causing dehydration in your mouth.

As previously mentioned, good oral hygiene, eating fresh vegetables and eliminating bad habits such as caffeine, alcohol and tobacco products are all good practice. Apply tea tree oils or peppermint to your toothbrush. Use natural breath fresheners in place of breath mints. Choose water in place of other drinks, this will help to keep your mouth moist. One of the most important things is to visit your dentist regularly.